NOW UPDATED FOR 2022-2023!
Prerequisite:
Recommendation of Natural Science and Engineering teacher
The study of life engages the student in exploring the interconnected topics of biochemistry, cell biology, human body systems, genetics, evolution and ecoligy. This course is designed to move at a slower pace, and provides many opportunities for review and reinforcement of the concepts, along with varied types of assessments.
Prerequisite:
Recommendation of current science teacher AND either: C or better in Natural Science and Engineering L3, OR Successful completion of Natural Science and Engineering L4, OR A- or better in Natural Science and Engineering L2
This course invites students to explore life from a molecular, organismal and ecological perspective. Topics of discussion include the chemistry of life, life processes, the genetic basis of inheritance, basic anatomy and physiology, ecological studies, and the origin, evolution and diversity of life. Each unit includes laboratory investigation to reinforce concepts.
Prerequisite:
Recommendation of current science teacher AND either: B- or better in Natural Science and Engineering L4, OR A or better in Natural Science and Engineering L3
This course is designed for students who have a natural intellectual curiosity for the sciences. It requires a high level of reading comprehension, writing, critical thinking and interpretation skills, and is designed for students who are self directed. This course provides a molecular based curriculum that emphasizes conceptualization and application of concepts to large biological themes such as cell structure and function, energy utilization, genetic continuity, evolution, interdependence and diversity of life. Concepts are investigated in a number of laboratory experiments and projects, requiring students to employ basic research skills as they follow the Scientific Method.
Prerequisite:
All of: Recommendation of current science teacher AND concurrent enrollment or B- or better in Chemistry L4 AND either: B- or better in Biology L4, OR A- or better in Biology L3
This rigorous course is equivalent to a college level freshman biology course. Instruction in AP biology presumes students' mastery of foundational topics in biology. The expectation is that students who require review in these areas will do so independently or meet with the instructor outside of class. Students who are successful in AP biology are highly motivated independent earners, able to work at a fast pace, demonstrate skillful writing and numeric analysis, and are able to complete extensive work outside of class. A summer assignment is part of the course and must be completed in the first week of school. Topics and labs covered are determined by the College Board. Areas of emphasis are: biochemistry, cellular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, and 13 labs plus more that are student designed.
Prerequisite:
Recommendation of current science teacher AND either: C- or better in Biology L4, OR C or better in Biology L3
This course involves a fascinating exploration of human anatomy and physiology in which students discover how the human body is organized and how it functions. Laboratory investigations include cat dissection and “hands on” physiological studies of the fundamental systems of the body.
Prerequisite:
Recommendation of current science teacher AND either: C+ or better in Biology L4, OR B- or better in Biology L3
This is an accelerated course designed for students considering careers in the allied health professions, biology or biotechnology. Topics include organization of the human body, histology, as well as an in depth investigation of the body’s systems. Laboratory investigations include cat dissection as well as the use of biotechnology instrumentation (i.e. EMG, EEG, EKG and GSR).